Yaşar Ersoy critiques the concept of modernity

Yaşar Ersoy examines the contemporary usage of the term ‘modern’ (çağdaş), noting that it is frequently employed by academics, politicians, and artists. The text argues that the term has often been stripped of its intellectual merit and transformed into a status symbol used to marginalize others.

While dictionary definitions describe modernity as being contemporary with one's era, the author suggests that simply existing in the present is not a reliable metric for progress. Drawing on perspectives from Antonio Gramsci and Asım Bezirci, the analysis proposes that the concept of modernity must be viewed through a class-based lens.

The text asserts that what is considered modern for the ruling classes may result in exploitation, insecurity, and impoverishment for the working classes. Consequently, technological advancement, market growth, or alignment with neoliberal trends do not inherently constitute true social progress or modernity if they do not serve the interests of all social classes.